Green bean soup

Green bean soup – a comforting recipe filled with flavor and summer memories

Green bean soup is one of those recipes that takes us back to sunny days and the fresh taste of vegetables. It is a versatile dish that can be adapted according to the season and available ingredients. This soup, rich in aromas and textures, is perfect both in winter, when we enjoy canned green beans, and in summer, with fresh ingredients from the garden. Here’s how you can prepare it step by step to achieve a delicious and comforting result.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Total: 55-65 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 1 large carrot
- 1 parsnip
- 400 g canned green beans (or 500 g fresh green beans)
- 200 ml tomato puree
- 1 egg
- 200 ml cooking cream
- Salt, to taste
- Oil for sautéing (about 2-3 tablespoons)
- Optional: other vegetables (onion, bell pepper, tomatoes, celery leaves)

Recipe history:
Green bean soup has deep roots in culinary tradition, being a recipe passed down from generation to generation. It is a dish that brings together the fresh ingredients of the season and winter preserves, symbolizing the adaptability and ingenuity of homemakers. Whether served plain or with egg and cream, green bean soup remains a delight, bringing a touch of warmth and comfort to every bowl.

Step by step for a perfect soup:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
- Peel the carrot and parsnip, then cut them into cubes. These vegetables will give a pleasant aroma and a sweet taste to your soup.
- If using fresh green beans, trim the ends and cut them into pieces about 3-4 cm long. If you have canned beans, make sure to rinse them under cold water to remove excess salt.

2. Sautéing the vegetables:
- In a large pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped carrot and parsnip, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes until they become slightly translucent and the oil changes color. This is when the flavors will start to reveal themselves.

3. Adding water:
- After the vegetables have been sautéed, pour in water (about 1.5 liters) into the pot, cover with a lid, and let it simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are half cooked.

4. Including the beans:
- Add the canned beans (or fresh beans if you chose this option) to the pot. Be careful to stir gently so that the beans do not break. Continue to simmer the soup for 10-15 minutes.

5. Adding the puree:
- Once all the ingredients are cooked, add the tomato puree and adjust the salt to taste. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes so that the flavors combine perfectly.

6. Preparing the egg and cream:
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg white until frothy. Add it to the soup, stirring gently. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the egg white sets.
- In another bowl, mix the yolk with the cooking cream to form a smooth mixture. After the soup has cooled slightly, add this mixture, stirring carefully.

7. Serving:
- Green bean soup is served hot, alongside a generous portion of polenta with cheese. This combination adds extra flavor and texture to your dish. You can garnish each bowl with a little freshly chopped parsley for a more appealing look.

Practical tips:
- If you want a heartier soup, you can add diced potatoes during cooking.
- Experiment with spices: a bay leaf or a few peppercorns will add extra flavor.
- The soup can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days or frozen for later consumption.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen beans?
Yes, frozen green beans are an excellent choice. Just make sure to thaw them before adding them to the soup.

2. How can I make the soup spicier?
Add a chopped chili pepper or a little cayenne pepper during preparation.

3. What other vegetables can I add?
You can experiment with zucchini, celery, or even peas to diversify the flavors.

Nutritional benefits:
Green bean soup is not only delicious but also healthy. Green beans are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and provide a good source of fiber, which aids digestion. Additionally, carrots and parsnips contribute antioxidants, supporting the immune system.

In conclusion, green bean soup is a simple yet flavorful dish that can bring a touch of joy to every meal. Whether you choose to prepare it with fresh vegetables or use pantry staples, this recipe will turn any meal into a memorable experience. Experiment, adapt, and most importantly, enjoy every bite!